Ukhrul ambush: NSO Myanmar condemns killing of four NSCN Eastern Flank personnel, urges restraint

Guwahati: The Naga Students Organization, Myanmar has expressed “deep shock and profound sorrow” over an ambush at Hongbei village junction in Ukhrul district on March 28, which left four personnel of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland's (NSCN-IM) Eastern Flank Command were killed.

The incident occurred at around 9:00 PM in what the organization described as a deeply troubling development at a time when the Naga community faces mounting challenges from multiple directions. The student body warned that internal violence could further weaken the collective cause of the Naga people.

“At such a critical juncture, unity, solidarity, and a collective commitment to safeguard our rights and identity are of utmost importance,” the organization said in a statement, adding that violence among Naga groups undermines both present stability and future aspirations.

Condemning the attack, the organization called for a “thorough and transparent inquiry” to establish the motives behind the ambush. It emphasized that accountability and justice must be ensured in accordance with the law for the victims and their families.

The four personnel killed in the ambush have been identified as Major Sochipem Phungshok, Sergeant Major Zairay Vasah, Sergeant Bahnlei Ahlapya, and Sergeant Thansomi Washi.

Reiterating its long-standing position, the students organization said, it has consistently advocated peace, reconciliation, and unity amid internal differences among various NSCN/GPRN factions. It noted that internal divisions remain “the greatest threat,” surpassing even external challenges in their impact.

The organization also highlighted its continued engagement with stakeholders, including visits to Hebron and Eastern Flank camps, where it conveyed the concerns and aspirations of Naga youth for a unified movement rather than a fragmented one.

In response to the incident, the body has urged the United Naga Council and the Tangkhul Naga Long to intervene and facilitate a peaceful resolution in line with both legal frameworks and Naga customary practices.

It further appealed to the NSCN/GPRN Eastern Flank Command to exercise restraint and avoid retaliation, stressing the importance of due process and maintaining peace. Authorities at Hebron were also urged to remain accountable and responsive, referencing a recent statement issued by the Publicity and Information Bureau, GHQ Naga Army.

Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families, the organization paid tribute to the slain personnel, stating that their loss is deeply felt across the community.

“May their souls rest in eternal peace, and may strength and comfort be granted to their families in this time of grief,” the statement said.